Hong Kong, a vibrant city known for its unique blend of East and West, offers a rich tapestry of arts and humanities. The city’s cultural scene is as diverse as its population, with a myriad of artistic expressions and intellectual pursuits. An interesting aspect of this cultural landscape is the integration of the IQTS, or the Inquiry, Questioning, Thinking, and Synthesis approach. This method encourages a deeper understanding and appreciation of the arts and humanities. In this blog post, we will explore four distinct approaches to arts and humanities in Hong Kong using the IQTS.
1. Traditional Arts and Crafts
Exploring the Past through Craftsmanship
Traditional arts and crafts form an integral part of Hong Kong’s cultural heritage. From the intricate designs of Chinese knotting to the delicate art of paper cutting, these crafts offer a glimpse into the city’s past. The IQTS approach encourages individuals to inquire about the origins of these crafts, question their significance, and think about their relevance in contemporary society. This process of synthesis leads to a deeper appreciation of these traditional arts.
Reviving Lost Arts
Many traditional arts and crafts are at risk of being lost in the hustle and bustle of modern life. However, through the IQTS approach, there is a renewed interest in preserving these cultural treasures. By questioning the reasons behind their decline and thinking about ways to revive them, individuals can contribute to their preservation. This is akin to the revival of vinyl records in the music industry, where a seemingly outdated medium found new life in the modern era.
2. Performing Arts
The Magic of Theatre
The performing arts scene in Hong Kong is as diverse as it is vibrant. From Cantonese opera to contemporary dance, there is something for everyone. The IQTS approach encourages audiences to engage with performances on a deeper level. Just as one would analyse a film for its themes and cinematography, the IQTS approach invites individuals to question the themes, choreography, and performances in a theatre production, leading to a richer viewing experience.
Music: A Universal Language
Music is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries. In Hong Kong, you can find a wide range of musical genres, from traditional Chinese music to Western classical and contemporary pop. The IQTS approach encourages listeners to question the cultural influences in a piece of music, think about its emotional impact, and synthesise these elements to gain a deeper understanding of the music. This is similar to tasting a complex dish, where one tries to identify the individual ingredients while appreciating the overall flavour.
3. Literature and Philosophy
Exploring the Human Condition through Literature
Hong Kong’s literary scene offers a rich array of works that explore the human condition. The IQTS approach encourages readers to question the motivations of characters, think about the themes explored, and synthesise these elements to gain a deeper understanding of the narrative. This is similar to analysing a painting, where one looks at the individual elements to appreciate the overall composition.
Delving into Philosophy
Philosophy, the study of fundamental questions about existence, values, reason, and more, is a crucial part of the humanities. The IQTS approach encourages individuals to question established philosophies, think critically about their implications, and synthesise their own viewpoints. This is akin to a scientific investigation, where one questions existing theories, conducts experiments, and formulates new hypotheses.
4. Visual Arts
Appreciating Art in its Many Forms
From traditional Chinese painting to contemporary multimedia installations, the visual arts scene in Hong Kong is diverse and vibrant. The IQTS approach encourages viewers to question the artist’s intentions, think about the techniques used, and synthesise these elements to gain a deeper understanding of the artwork. This is similar to watching a magic trick, where one tries to figure out the method while appreciating the illusion.
Photography: Capturing Moments in Time
Photography, a relatively modern art form, has a significant presence in Hong Kong. The IQTS approach encourages individuals to question the subject matter, think about the composition, and synthesise these elements to gain a deeper understanding of the photograph. This is akin to analysing a poem, where one looks at the individual words and phrases to appreciate the overall meaning.
In conclusion, the IQTS approach offers a comprehensive and engaging way to explore the arts and humanities in Hong Kong. By encouraging inquiry, questioning, thinking, and synthesis, it enables individuals to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the city’s rich cultural landscape.
Advance Your Teaching Career with The IQTS at UWE
As you delve into the arts and humanities in Hong Kong, consider how the International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) Programme at UWE can elevate your professional journey. With the IQTS approach enhancing your pedagogical skills, you can overcome the barriers of strict international qualification requirements, experience significant career progression, and connect with a global community of educators. Embrace the opportunity to deepen your understanding of international curricula and balance professional development with your existing commitments. Make Your Next Step towards a more fulfilling teaching career with the iQTS programme.